Jamie Gittens. (Getty)
Chelsea wrapped up a mixed 2024/25 campaign on a resounding high, securing Champions League qualification and lifting the UEFA Europa Conference League — becoming the first club to win all three major European trophies, having previously won both the Champions League and Europa League.
With the season now concluded, attention has swiftly turned to the transfer market as Enzo Maresca’s youthful side prepares for what promises to be a demanding season ahead.
The Blues are already making moves. According to reports, they’ve agreed personal terms with Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap, who netted 12 Premier League goals last season. Chelsea have activated his £30 million release clause, with a medical expected soon ahead of an official announcement. Delap previously played under Maresca and alongside Cole Palmer at Manchester City’s academy.
Meanwhile, Jadon Sancho is also expected to join the club permanently. While Chelsea had a £5 million get-out clause in the deal that brought him on loan from Manchester United, his strong finish to the season — capped by a goal in the Conference League final — appears to have secured his future at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea Eye Jamie Gittens
Sancho made his name at Borussia Dortmund, and now Chelsea are reportedly targeting another English talent shining at the Westfalenstadion: Jamie Gittens.
The 20-year-old winger enjoyed a breakout season at Dortmund, scoring 12 goals and providing five assists across all competitions, including a standout strike against Real Madrid in the Champions League. However, since the arrival of Niko Kovač in January, his minutes have become more limited.
According to The Guardian, Chelsea have already opened talks with Dortmund and are considering a £50 million bid. Like Palmer and Delap, Gittens also came through the youth system at Manchester City, making the potential move a reunion of sorts.
Chelsea are prioritising the signing of a right-footed winger who can play off the left — a role Gittens fits perfectly. The club is reportedly eager to complete the deal ahead of the Club World Cup, which kicks off on June 15.
The teenager has earned high praise this season, even drawing comparisons to some of Dortmund’s most successful exports, Sancho included.
“Jamie is still not 100 per cent what we expect from a world-class player — but he has all the talent to become one of those,” said former Dortmund striker Karl-Heinz Riedle. “He can become the next Sancho, Erling Haaland or Bellingham.
“He is very quick, very good in one-against-one situations, and has the ability to finish as well. I see a young player who has the full package — plus he’s someone I see working on how to make himself better.”
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